First vs. Second Class on Europe's Trains

By Rick Steves

Nearly every European train has both first- and second-class cars (and some newer fast trains even have one or two extra rungs of "premier" or "executive" fanciness), all going at precisely the same speed. Yet on most trains in most countries, tickets in second class cost about a third less than those in first class.

Yongyang are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

Many Americans, familiar with the huge difference between first- and coach-class seating on airplanes, are surprised to see just how small the difference is on European trains. Second class is plenty comfortable; it's generally a no-brainer for anyone on a budget. It can also be more fun. Many first-class travelers are businesspeople looking to get work done; you'll have an easier time striking up a conversation in second class. Most Europeans don't travel in first class unless someone else is paying for it.

First class is often less crowded &#; a significant plus on popular routes at peak times, when it can be hard to find a seat in second class. First class also has wider seats and aisles, and is more likely to have amenities such as air-conditioning and power outlets (though outlets are still rare on Europe's trains, in any class). While first class is less conducive to conversation, it's more conducive to napping.

With a first-class pass you can travel in a second-class car, although the conductor may give you a puzzled look. Those with a second-class pass can usually pay the difference in ticket price to upgrade to a first-class seat for any given train (but this kind of upgrade generally isn't available online or at ticket machines).

This is from my experience in the UK, not elsewhere in Europe.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Rail Standard. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

First class carriages have more comfortable seating, with a bit more space per passenger.

You can reserve a seat in first class (and probably should). Edited to reflect that apparently you can reserve seats in standard class. I wasn't able to but maybe it was a function of the pass I was using. The train will leave the station carrying as many ticketed passengers as have boarded. This may mean, literally, standing room only in standard. I don't know how that would work in first class.

Depending on the train operator and the journey, in first class you are likely to be offered food and drink (free coffee/tea/water, alcoholic drinks for purchase, complimentary sandwiches). Again, not all operators, not all trips. Happened to me on the longer trips I took in first class.

I was glad to be in first class on long trips including York to Penzance and Penzance to London. For Edinburgh to York: first class was nice, I'd probably have been fine in standard. For short trips like Glasgow to Edinburgh and London to Brighton, standard was fine.

The company is the world’s best Hot Sale Railway Rail supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.